Exploring the remote islands of Melanesia and Micronesia independently can be challenging which is of course what makes the region so alluring to the genuine traveller, but also why travelling aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration is the ideal way to discover the beauty and diversity of the region. Made up of hundreds of remote islands which are perhaps less familiar than their faraway neighbours such as Hawaii and Polynesia, it is a true paradise both above land and below its crystal-clear waters. During this expedition you will experience the description-defying beauty of the islands and atolls along with their culture and ambience which have long attracted adventurers, explorers and travellers to their enchanting shores. The islands we call at are certainly not on the mass tourism circuit and their beauty and customs are relatively unscathed by the modern world. Exploring with the onboard fleet of Zodiacs will provide the freedom of spontaneity to land on otherwise inaccessible beaches and encounter some truly remote and fascinating communities.
Sailing from New Caledonia to Taiwan by way of Vanuatu and through the island groups of Micronesia, we will experience the culture and traditions of this wonderous region in all its vastness, diversity and warmth. One of the many advantages of exploring by small ship is the opportunity to truly venture off the beaten track where others seldom can and from these remote island paradises we will partake in centuries-old cultural traditions, enjoy nature walks inland and swim and snorkel in the warm waters from isolated, palm fringed beaches. The itinerary has been planned to include visits to many remote and exquisite islands including Vanuatu’s Espiritu Santo, home to a magnificent array of flora and fauna and beautiful beaches, the isolated Marshall Islands where from the moment you step foot you will feel like Robinson Crusoe, and Palau with its ancient villages and ruins.
We are delighted to be working with our associates at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and their five-star vessel, the Hanseatic Inspiration for this expedition which promises to be a unique experience bringing with it spectacular natural experiences in a world far away from the stresses of modern life. You will be joined on board by an expert expedition team, consisting of naturalists, marine biologists and ecologists who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm during forays ashore and on sea days when you can also pass the time looking for wildlife on deck, attend lectures, or simply relax on board enjoying the facilities.
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Itinerary
Please note that with the exception of Zodiac excursions, shore excursions are not included in the price and details of what excursions will be available along with prices will be sent to passengers three months before departure.
Day 1 London or Manchester to Brisbane, Australia.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Brisbane.
Arrive this evening and transfer to our hotel for a two night stay.
Day 3 Brisbane.
Today is free to explore Brisbane at your own pace or maybe relax and enjoy the hotel facilities.
Day 4 Brisbane to Noumea, New Caledonia.
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Noumea. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration for embarkation before we sail this evening.
Day 5 At Sea.
Discovering the new and unfamiliar in the vastness of the Pacific also means spending time at sea. On such days the team of experts provide fascinating background information and talks whilst you can also relax and enjoy the comfort and service on board.
Day 6 Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu.
Our first island stop is the island nation of Vanuatu. Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands with some of the most beautiful beaches, amazing blue holes, caves and renowned snorkelling. We will make our way to the white sanded Champagne Beach, inviting you to snorkel or swim in the clear waters.
Days 7 to 9 At Sea.
For the next three days we continue our journey towards the more remote islands of the Pacific, crossing the equator as we sail. The lecture programme continues on board and there is also time to relax on deck.
Day 10 Butaritari, Kiribati.
Located in the Gilbert group of islands Butaritari was the first trading capital of Kiribati in the 19th century and also a temporary home to Robert Louis Stevenson. As the ship drops anchor in the crystal-clear waters we will have a magical welcome as locals greet us with traditional ceremonies and dances before we take the chance to explore the island.
Days 11 to 13 Marshall Islands.
It is hardly possible to emphasise a single highlight among the many dream destinations on this expedition. No matter which turquoise lagoons and small bays the Zodiacs take you to – when you set foot on the Marshall Islands, you will feel like Robinson Crusoe. The widely scattered atolls and over 1,000 islands are still undiscovered by tourists and we will find rare species, mysterious rituals and lush jungle. We hope to visit Mili Atoll, home to sea turtles and coconut crabs whilst the American administration had a strong influence on life on Majuro Atoll. Jaluit Atoll, with a land mass of 11 square kilometres surrounded by a lagoon that spans almost 700 square kilometres offers a sense of total isolation.
Day 14 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we continue our journey across the Pacific.
Days 15 to 21 Caroline Islands.
Many of the remote Caroline Islands cannot even be located on a map. This part of the Pacific is almost forgotten by the world today, but the onboard experts know a lot about the former colonial influence, the turmoil of two world wars and the indigenous flora and fauna. Kosrae is a gem comprising jungle and mangroves – dominated by a volcano in the centre that is more than 600 metres high. The second-largest of the Caroline Islands, Pohnpei’s landscape is characterised by jagged mountains covered in rainforest and over 40 rivers running down from the highlands. There will be an optional visit to the ancient ruined city of Nan Madol, shrouded in mysticism and built on more than 90 man-made islands which leads you into the heart of lush vegetation. Ulul is one of the many coral islands on this expedition that receive few foreign visitors whilst the friendly inhabitants of the untouched island of Lamotrek will transport you to another world with their traditional dances.
Days 22 & 23 Yap Island.
Yap is also extremely remote, an island on which people lead highly traditional and simple lives. On a choice of optional tours you can marvel at the round stone money banks in front of the houses or take a kayak tour through the mangroves to explore an undisturbed ecosystem. Meanwhile, the use of the Zodiacs provides rare glimpses of life on a remote islet. Meet the only human living on Ngulu Atoll or enjoy this idyllic setting as you swim or snorkel.
Days 24 to 26 Palau.
The “Floating Garden” of Palau is a dream world. Many tiny islands emerge from the blue-green ocean like mushrooms covered in plant life. To allow you to fully immerse yourself in this wonder and peace the ship will stay for two nights. Plenty of time, for example, for an optional boat trip through the Rock Islands or optional guided snorkelling tour. Bizarre limestone cliffs are overgrown with thick vegetation and a colourful diversity of species lives in shimmering coral. On an optional scenic flight over the island world, you can see this paradise from a completely different perspective.
Days 27 to 29 At Sea.
Spend three days at sea as we make our way across the Philippine Sea to Taiwan. Maybe join a lecture, reminisce with your fellow travellers about the remarkable places visited or find a spot on deck to watch the world go by.
Day 30 Keelung, Taiwan to London or Manchester.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London or Manchester.
Day 31 London or Manchester.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 23 April to 23 May 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £19795 | £18795 |
| 2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £20495 | £19495 |
| 3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £21995 | £20995 |
| 4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £22995 | £21995 |
| 5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £22995 | £21995 |
| 6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £23495 | £22495 |
| 7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £24495 | £23495 |
| 8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £25295 | £24295 |
| 9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | £28295 | £27295 |
| 10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | £37995 | £36995 |
| 2 Panoramic cabin for sole use | £27995 | £26995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI230425
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Brisbane with breakfast • 26 nights aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration on a full board basis • Mini-bar with soft drinks in your cabin restocked each day • Zodiac excursions • Expedition team including onboard lectures • Gratuities • Transfers • Landing fees • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, optional shore excursions (details will be available to pre-book three months before departure and payment will be made on board), visa for Marshall Islands & Micronesia, lunch on days 3 & 4 and dinner on days 2 & 3, drinks with meals aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration.
Important Information. A visa is required for visits to the Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia. These are currently processed on arrival and are not required to be arranged in advance. A complimentary eVisitor Visa is required for Australia and processed prior to arrival. Further information regarding visa requirements will be provided to booked passengers 12 weeks prior to departure. Flights schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the itinerary may change on their release.
Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 20% deposit and that the balance payment will be due 150 days before the date of departure. Please also note that between 149 and 70 days before the date of departure, cancellation charges shall be 40% of the total holiday price payable.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
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Deckplan
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
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Ship Directory
Ship DirectoryPlease find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the Hanseatic Inspiration for your upcoming voyage. Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a newly built, five-star expedition ship that was launched in October 2019. There are a total of 120 cabins and the public areas for your enjoyment and relaxation include a lounge area where recaps and lectures take place, an expansive Sun Deck with pool area and the Ocean Spa. There are also three exceptional restaurants on board to cater for all your dining requirements. We hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: October 2019
Gross tonnage: 15,650
Length: 138 metres
Beam: 22 metres
Draught: 5.7 metres
Speed: 16 knots
Ice class: PC 6
Passenger capacity: 230 (199 for cruises to the Antarctic & Spitsbergen)
Crew: 175
Language: German/EnglishAIR-CONDITIONING
The cabins, suites and public areas are equipped with air-conditioning.
BEDS
All cabins and suites have a double bed that can also be separated to make two single beds. If you would prefer a configuration of two single beds please request this at the time of booking. All Grand Suites and Junior Suites also have a sofa bed.
BOUTIQUE
In the onboard boutique on Deck 4 you will find a selection of men’s and women’s clothing, jewellery, gifts and everyday items.
BRIDGE
Due to its crucial importance as the control centre for nautical and technical processes, the bridge is a highly sensitive area. This is why international safety regulations prohibit it being open to the general public. However, guests have the opportunity to visit the bridge, unless prevented by nautical interests or the local regulations of the coastal regions we are passing, by prior arrangement with the officer on duty. The bridge officers will be happy to give you information about the itinerary, the ship’s course and position as well as other nautical aspects.
BUTLER
In the Junior Suites and Grand Suites, there is a butler at your service. Among other things, the butler is responsible for packing and unpacking your clothes. This personal service is available around the clock.
CABINS & SUITES
There are 120 outside cabins/suites with categories as below;
Outside Cabin, Panoramic Cabin, French Balcony Cabin & Balcony Cabin
These four cabin types are identically equipped and furnished, with the exception of the window and balcony areas, and all feature the following;
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Rain shower
• Free mini bar (soft drinks)
• Coffee machine
• Separable beds
• Extras in the cabin and service privileges (see chart)
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Junior Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Bathroom with two sinks and rain shower
• Separate toilet
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Grand Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Veranda with space heaters
• Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower and veranda access
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e. g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Separate toilet
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart)
Please note: If you would prefer separate bedrooms, there are a total of six Balcony Cabins/Suites on Decks 6 and 7 (cabin numbers 609/611, 608/610, 646/648, 647/649, 734/736 and 735/737) with a connecting door to the neighbouring cabin/suite.
On embarkation you will be welcomed with a small bottle of champagne and a selection of fruits that will be replenished each day. Each cabin has a mini bar that will be restocked with soft drinks every day free of charge. A wide range of breakfast options and a selection of meals are available through the cabin service (24 hour service).
DINING
There is a choice of three spacious open-seating restaurants including the Hanseatic Restaurant with its relaxed atmosphere, the buffet style Lido Restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor seating, and the Speciality Restaurant, the Nikkei, where you will be taken on a culinary voyage of discovery with Japanese and Peruvian creations. The maître D’ will be happy to accept table reservations for the Speciality Restaurant (open only in the evening) at the beginning of your cruise. Guests in the Grand Suites and Junior Suites may make table requests for the Hanseatic Restaurant.
Cuisine The cuisine on board is international and includes: early-bird breakfast, breakfast, bouillon, lunch and dinner (there are three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours), afternoon coffee/tea time, midnight snack.
Allergies We would be happy to take into consideration any special requests regarding dietary requirements and/or food allergies. Please inform Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests upon embarkation.
DRESS CODE
During the day the atmosphere on board is casual and in the evenings casual, elegant attire is recommended.
E-MAILS
You can send and receive e-mails using your on board e-mail address, details of which will be provided to you upon embarkation. E-mails of up to 1MB of data are free of charge to send.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT
If the cruising area and any time spent ashore call for it, you can borrow a pair of rubber boots on board. On expeditions in extreme regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic, a warm parka (sizes XS – XXXL) is at your disposal for the duration of the cruise. Snorkelling equipment, standup paddle boards, fishing rods and snowshoes (Antarctic only) are also offered in the relevant regions; each cabin/suite has a set of Nordic poles and Swarovski Optik binoculars. There is a Mud-Room and changing room with lockers available for when returning from shore activities and Zodiac excursions.
EXPERTS/PRESENTATIONS
Expeditions are accompanied by experts who will be happy to answer your questions about the cruising area. They will share their in-depth knowledge of the destination in fascinating talks, images and presentations, discussions and personal conversations. The experts will also accompany you on Zodiac landings and included walks and hikes. Talks will be held live in the HanseAtrium. The live broadcast and recordings can be viewed in every cabin/suite.
FILM PROGRAMME
You may use the guest portal to watch a range of documentaries and feature films on your television, which you can directly access.
INTERNET/WI-FI
Internet usage is complimentary for one hour per guest per day (subject to connectivity) after which there is a surcharge. The entire ship is equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots that you can use to access the Internet from your laptop, tablet or mobile device. Tablets can also be borrowed from reception free of charge (subject to availability). The charges for Wi-Fi and Internet use will be deducted from your onboard account. Due to a potentially unstable satellite connection that depends on the weather and ship’s position, especially in northern and southern cruising areas, this service cannot be guaranteed at all times. In extreme regions, such as the Arctic and Antarctic, the TV, radio, Internet, email and phone services may not be available on a daily basis due to satellite positioning.
LAUNDRY & IRONING SERVICE
The Hanseatic Inspiration offers a laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service.
LIFT
The various decks are connected by two lifts. Deck 9 is only accessible on foot.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All monetary transactions on board the ship are processed by Reception. The onboard currency is the Euro. To ensure cashless transactions, an account will be set up for you which you will settle at Reception at the end of your cruise. The following means of payment are accepted: MasterCard, American Express, Visa and German EC/Maestro cards. Please note that, in general, foreign currencies cannot be changed on board.
MEDICAL SERVICES
The Hanseatic inspiration has a modern, well equipped ship’s hospital (Deck 3) under the supervision of an experienced ship’s doctor. Guests who are being treated for any medical condition should contact the ship’s doctor directly after embarkation. It is important to bring any medications required on board with you in sufficient quantities in your hand luggage. In the case of an accident caused by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises or its staff members either on board or during a shore activity organised by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, treatment is provided free of charge. Treatment for seasickness is subject to a charge if you make use of the medical services. Thrombosis prevention medication is offered on board if required (subject to a charge). A fee is charged for all other medical treatment in accordance with the valid German medical fee schedule (GOÄ). The costs for any treatment or medication will be charged to your onboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a separate invoice to submit to your health insurance provider.
MINI BAR
Soft drinks are available free of charge from the mini bar in your cabin/ suite and are restocked daily. In the Grand Suites and Junior Suites, you can also enjoy a selection of fine spirits free of charge.
NEWSPAPERS
Depending on satellite reception, you will receive the latest daily newspapers containing the most important information from around the world.
PHOTOGRAPHER
There is a professional photographer on board. It is possible to have digital images burned onto CDs and/or printed (at a surcharge).
POST
The Reception staff will post your postcards and letters from most ports where this facility is available. Your onboard account will be debited with the appropriate charges.
PUBLIC AREAS
Fitness Room
There is a large fitness room with ocean views which is open 24 hours a day and includes workout machines and free weights. In a separate area, a range of classes is offered including yoga, pilates and spinning. Timings will be detailed in the Daily Programme. All classes are complimentary - personal trainers are available at extra cost.
HanseAtrium
The HanseAtrium is the main lounge area on Deck 4 and the venue for the presentations from experts and recaps about the day’s events and sightings. There are floor to ceiling LED screens which project stunning images around the room creating a relaxing atmosphere and there is a Bar with a selection of drinks on offer. Next door is the quieter ‘Invisible Lounge’ which is the ideal place to hide yourself away with a good book.
Inspiration Walk
The Inspiration Walk allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views.
Library
The Library is located in the Observation Lounge on Deck 8 and is stocked with the latest fiction books and travel literature.
Ocean Academy
The Ocean Academy provides a wonderful space for learning with interactive computers, four Study Seats for user-friendly digital learning, a Study Wall for enhanced learning as well as microscopes for studying samples from explorations ashore.
Observation Lounge
The Observation Lounge offers 180 degree panoramic views which can be enjoyed whilst relaxing over afternoon tea, accompanied by music from the grand piano, or with a pre-dinner cocktail from the bar. There is a large selection of books in the library area and close by is the Pool Bar.
Pool Area & Sun Deck
There is a spacious pool area on Deck 8 including a heated swimming pool, a whirlpool and bar. There are plenty of deckchairs and sun loungers for your use and towels and blankets are provided. A flexible canopy means that the entire pool area can be used whatever the weather. The Sun Deck also features two extendible glass-floored balconies which provide the unique feeling of floating over the ocean.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa offers a complete wellness programme from soothing massages to cosmetic treatments and a hairdresser. The spa operates a ‘green’ spa concept with use of carefully selected natural products and vegan brands. Reservations can be made once on board and treatments are at cost. Use of the sauna and steam bath are complimentary.
SAFE
Each cabin/suite has a private safe for storing your valuables.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in any of the cabins or suites or in any public areas. Guests may smoke cigarettes, cigarillos, pipes and cigars in the Smoker’s Lounge (Deck 4) and on the private balcony/veranda of your cabin/suite. There is also a designated outdoor smoking area on the port side of the ship near the pool. The smoking of pipes and cigars is only permitted in the Smoker’s Lounge.
STABILISERS
The ship is equipped with a stabiliser system that can be extended in a side swell to weaken the rolling movements of the ship in rough seas.
TELECOMMUNCATIONS/MOBILE PHONES
The ship is equipped with a satellite communications system. Depending on the satellite reception, this allows you to make direct telephone calls to any destination worldwide directly from your cabin/suite. Please be aware that a charge is incurred immediately upon dialling a telephone/ fax number. The ship is equipped with a GSM mobile network. This system also enables you to use your mobile phone or smartphone at sea in areas where your mobile provider cannot generally guarantee connectivity (service subject to a charge; prices vary depending on the mobile phone provider).
TELEVISION/RADIO PROGRAMME
You will receive the channels available in the region where the ship is currently located via satellite.
TENDER & ZODIAC SERVICE
In all ports in which the Hanseatic Inspiration is not docked at the pier, but is at anchor, you will go ashore on the ship’s own tender boats or the motorised rubber boats (Zodiacs).
VOLTAGE
In your cabin/suite, you will find outlets for 220 V (50 Hz) alternating current as well as outlets for 110V (60 Hz). In general, we would recommend that you bring a travel adaptor for different outlets with you. For safety reasons, the use of electric kettles, hair straighteners and irons in the cabins is not permitted.
PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000